Rocky (the internet connection, not the boxer).

The internet connection here in Orvieto is indeed unstable, but we have set up the little computer in just the right spot to allow us a signal that's just OK.  This is only a post to say we arrived yesterday afternoon and that as far as we can see, Orvieto is a dear little medieval village.  There is a restriction on vehicular access, so that cars are parked outside the centre of town, making it very easy to walk around without having to worry about being run down, but also means that the village is a tranquil place to be.  Tiny shops line the main street and they all seem to sell quality products - artisan crafted leathergoods, beautiful clothes and shoes, gloves and hats, ceramics and so on.  There is an absence of touristy junk as Orvieto is a little bit off the main tourist trail, so that's a plus, too.

Our apartment is very spacious, with a large lounge room, separate kitchen, laundry, bathroom and huge bedroom (queen-sized bed plus day bed) opening out to our own sun-terrace.  Photos of the apartment below.  Going shopping now, but will blog again soon.